Ecology Technician (Temporary/Eureka) – Tyson Research Center

Position Summary
The Myers lab at Washington University in St. Louis seeks a seasonal field technician to participate in two large-scale forest ecology projects at the university’s field station, Tyson Research Center: 1) a re-census of a temperate forest-dynamics plot that is part of the Forest Global Earth Observatory (ForestGEO) global network of scientists and forest research sites dedicated to advancing long-term study of the world’s forests; and 2) a landscape-scale experiment investigating the importance of plant-functional traits in determining responses of plant diversity to environmental change (prescribed fire) and natural enemies (seed predators & herbivores).
The technician will develop skills and gain experience in: 1) field protocols for censuses of long-term ForestGEO plots, including tree identification, tree mapping, and measurements of tree growth, mortality, and seed production; 2) data collection for large-scale field experiments, including surveys of plant community composition and dynamics across environmental gradients; 3) management of large data sets; 4) mentoring of undergraduate and high school students in field research; and 5) team-based ecological field research.
This is a temporary position with an estimated start date between March 1 and May 23, 2024.

Job Description

For more information, please visit:

• Myers Lab: http://www.myersecologylab.com
• Tyson Research Center: http://tyson.wustl.edu  
• ForestGEO: http://www.forestgeo.si.edu  

Primary Duties and Responsibilities

• Working collaboratively with a research team on two large-scale, forest-ecology projects at Tyson Research Center. Field tasks include: 1) identifying, tagging, mapping, and measuring growth, mortality, and recruitment of seedlings and trees; 2) surveys of plant community composition and dynamics across environmental gradients; 3) collecting seeds from seed traps; 4) maintaining permanent field plots and seed traps; and 5) assisting with the mentoring and supervision of undergraduate students and high school students in field and lab research.
• Enter data using Microsoft Excel.
• Perform laboratory work including identifying and counting seeds from seed traps and general laboratory maintenance and cleaning.
• Assist with other field experiments at Tyson Research Center.
• Perform other duties as assigned.

Applicant Special Instructions

When applying, please attach the following:

• Cover letter describing your interest in this position, how the position would advance your career goals, relevant past experience, start date availability, and contact information for three references including e-mail addresses and phone numbers.
• CV or resume.

Working Conditions

• Exposure to dust, dirt, grease or other disagreeable elements.
• Outdoors under a range of conditions including walking long distances on steep terrain, and cold, hot or rainy weather.
• Exposure to moving machinery.
• Exposure to animals.
• Travel to on and off-campus locations.

Preferred Qualifications

• Strong interest in ecology.
• Experience working in a field team.
• Experience with plant identification, especially in temperate forests.
• Experience mentoring undergraduate students in research.
• Experience conducting independent research.
• Ability to work outdoors under a range of conditions including walking long distances on steep terrain, and cold, hot or rainy weather.
• Excellent organizational skills and attention to detail.
• Ability to work independently and to work well with a team in the laboratory and field.
• Ability to manage concurrent tasks.
• Ability to communicate well with research supervisor and other research team members.

Required Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in a related field (e.g., biology, ecology, forestry).
• Experience in field research.
• Excellent teamwork skills.
• Proficiency with data entry using Microsoft Excel.
• Enthusiasm to learn new concepts and field and laboratory skills.
• Missouri Class E Driver’s License or equivalent from another state.

Grade
R06-H

Accommodation

If you are unable to use our online application system and would like an accommodation, please email [email protected]  or call the dedicated accommodation inquiry number at 314-935-1149 and leave a voicemail with the nature of your request.

Pre-Employment Screening
All external candidates receiving an offer for employment will be required to submit to pre-employment screening for this position. The screenings will include criminal background check and, as applicable for the position, other background checks, drug screen, an employment and education or licensure/certification verification, physical examination, certain vaccinations and/or governmental registry checks. All offers are contingent upon successful completion of required screening.

EEO/AA Statement
Washington University in St. Louis is committed to the principles and practices of equal employment opportunity and especially encourages applications by those from underrepresented groups. It is the University’s policy to provide equal opportunity and access to persons in all job titles without regard to race, ethnicity, color, national origin, age, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, disability, protected veteran status, or genetic information.

Diversity Statement
Washington University is dedicated to building a diverse community of individuals who are committed to contributing to an inclusive environment – fostering respect for all and welcoming individuals from diverse backgrounds, experiences and perspectives. Individuals with a commitment to these values are encouraged to apply.